Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro
Three Kiambu and Murang’a county assembly members cross the floor as Kiharu MP builds opposition structures ahead of 2027
By Angela Mwanga
Kenya’s political realignment ahead of the 2027 General Election gathered fresh momentum yesterday when three Members of County Assembly affiliated with the ruling United Democratic Alliance crossed the floor to join the People’s Party of Kenya, led by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro — barely two days after he formally quit UDA.
Nyoro announced yesterday that Zack Macharia, the MCA for Kiuu Ward, popularly known as Githurai 45, in Ruiru Constituency, and Winnie Wambui, a Kiambu County MCA, had crossed over to PPK. A third MCA, Naomi Nyambura of Ruchu Ward in Murang’a County, also joined the party the same day. Nyoro described Nyambura, who chairs the Education Committee at the Murang’a County Assembly, as a “vibrant leader.”
Nyoro announced his exit from UDA on 17 August, declaring that he and his supporters had joined PPK and formally aligned with the opposition ahead of the 2027 general election. He said the decision followed extensive consultations with opposition leaders including Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, former Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, and Linda Mwananchi leaders Siaya Governor James Orengo and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
PPK is not a new party. Its registration dates to April 14, 2012, with the slogan “Usawa Haki Uhuru” — equality, justice and freedom. Nyoro’s entry transforms it from a relatively obscure political outfit into a party with one of the country’s most recognisable young politicians at its helm.
The MCAs’ defections carry particular significance. Ward-level elected representatives are closely embedded in their communities, making their political networks a potentially valuable foundation for any party seeking to expand its grassroots reach. For PPK, their arrival signals that the party is beginning to attract elected leaders beyond its founding membership.
The development has not been without controversy. PPK’s Democratic for the Citizens Party counterparts have been critical of its emergence, with DCP Secretary General John Methu describing it as a “green wheelbarrow” designed to dilute DCP’s influence in the Mt Kenya region, noting the similarity in colour between the two parties. Some DCP and opposition leaders have alleged that the formation of Nyoro’s party could be a state-backed effort to divide the region’s political support and weaken the opposition.
Nyoro’s exit from UDA is part of a broader wave of departures from the Mt Kenya region, where leaders such as Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha have also distanced themselves from the ruling party.
Nyoro stopped short of declaring a presidential bid, but used his Safari Park address to establish the foundations of a political alternative, accusing the government of failing to deliver on its campaign promises. “I have come to appreciate that it is easier to campaign than to govern,” he said — a pointed message from a politician once considered one of President William Ruto’s most prominent allies.
Nyoro has indicated plans for a nationwide tour, beginning with Uasin Gishu, Kericho and Nandi — areas that have traditionally supported Ruto — where he intends to explain his decision and mobilise support for the opposition.
Whether the MCA defections mark the beginning of a broader movement or remain an isolated development will become clearer in the weeks ahead. What is certain is that PPK’s early momentum has placed it firmly in the national political conversation.
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